laia

Laia is a feminine given name that is widely used in Catalan-speaking regions and in Spain. In Catalan contexts it is frequently an affectionate form of Eulàlia, but it is also used as an independent name.

Etymology: Eulàlia comes from the Greek Εὐλαλία (Eulalía), formed from eu- "good" and lal- "speech," and is commonly interpreted as "well-spoken" or "eloquent." Laia thus functions as a diminutive or familiar form and has become established in its own right.

Usage: The name is particularly common in Catalonia, the Balearic Islands, and Valencia, and has been adopted by Spanish-speaking communities abroad. It is used for girls and appears in various forms across languages.

Notable people: Laia Costa, a Spanish actress known for roles in film and television; Laia Sanz, a Spanish motorcycle trials rider and multiple world champion.

Fiction: Laia is the name of the heroine in the fantasy novel An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir, helping popularize the name beyond Catalan-speaking regions.